2013 Student Contests

"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

~Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., "I Have A Dream", August 28, 1963

Are you a trumpet of conscience?

Nearly 50 years ago at the March on Washington, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. implored the nation to imagine a world where individuals would have the opportunity to define themselves through their individual talents and abilities rather than be categorized based upon external characteristics or assumptions. A common refrain throughout Dr. King’s teachings, speeches and writings is that the potential for a more just and respectful society can be realized only if we can think of ourselves and others collectively as human beings first and foremost. Today, we continue to struggle toward a society where individuals are comfortable being and expressing themselves.

Rather than eliminating divisive stereotypes, we continue to refer to pre-conceptions about who people are and the meaning of the differences between us. In addition to race, religious beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation and socio-economic standing are just a few of the “identities” that we may assign to ourselves and others. The characteristics and traits associated with each classification have the potential to influence one’s trajectory in life in either a positive or negative way. What assumptions are made about you each day based upon your name, what school you attend or how you are dressed? Do these assumptions actually express who you are or what impact you can have on the world?

Holding true to Dr. King’s concern for humanity in general and the plight of our most vulnerable members of society in particular, we are asking students to consider the question: how can we overcome assumptions about identity and foster inclusion?